Celebrating Gordon Hicks: Recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal for Youth Advocacy

Gordon Hicks: A Beacon of Hope in Youth Mental Health

On March 4, 2025, BGIS Global Integrated Solutions proudly announced that its CEO, Gordon Hicks C.M., has been awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. This accolade honors his significant contributions to youth mental health advocacy in Canada over the last decade, particularly through his involvement with Kids Help Phone.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal was established to commemorate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III as King of Canada. It recognizes exceptional Canadians who have profoundly impacted their communities or made outstanding achievements that enhance Canada's reputation abroad.

Gordon Hicks' journey in youth mental health advocacy began after a heart-wrenching personal tragedy. In 2014, he lost his 19-year-old son Cameron in a tragic traffic accident. Cameron had faced his own battles with anxiety, and in his memory, the Hicks family founded the Cam's Kids Foundation. Over eight years, this foundation connected with countless young Canadians through a robust volunteer network, empowering them to support one another in times of distress.

In 2019, Cam's Kids partnered with Kids Help Phone, leveraging its professional counseling services to offer youth a pathway to assistance. This partnership flourished for five years, culminating in 2023 when Cam's Kids merged operations with Kids Help Phone to enhance support for those in need. As a board member of Kids Help Phone since 2019, Gordon has remained a staunch advocate for mental health, striving to elevate its importance within communities across Canada.

Gordon’s dedication extends beyond youth advocacy; he also emphasizes mental wellness within BGIS, the organization he leads. Under his guidance, BGIS aims to become the Healthiest Company in the World, focusing on innovative mental health programs. He is spearheading the establishment of a network of trained Mental Health Leaders globally, ensuring that leadership within the company can identify and address mental health challenges in the workplace effectively.

BGIS is also pioneering efforts in the real estate sector, promoting healthy indoor environments through its Blue Zone Buildings™ program. By prioritizing wellness in the spaces where people work, live, and play, BGIS seeks to foster productive and economically viable communities for future generations.

In reflection of his achievements, Gord Hicks expressed his gratitude: “Being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal is not just a personal honor but a recognition of a collective effort towards mental wellness, particularly for our youth. It is my hope that through our endeavors, we inspire others to prioritize mental health.”

The legacy of Gord Hicks and the Cam’s Kids Foundation continues to resonate throughout Canada, a powerful reminder that through compassion and advocacy, profound change can be enacted. Today, as a recipient of the Coronation Medal, Gordon's efforts are celebrated not only for their positive impact but for the hope they inspire in countless young individuals facing their struggles.”

This heartfelt story reflects the powerful intersection of personal loss and community commitment, highlighting the vital work being done to support youth mental health in Canada. Gordon Hicks embodies the spirit of resilience and advocacy, serving as a beacon of hope for many families across the nation.